A new species of mole has been discovered in wetlands and marshes in Eastern Europe by researchers from Poland, Ukraine, and Slovakia. Talpa aquitania was first spotted in 2014 by a fisherman in the Tisza River in Hungary. Weighing around 30 grams and measuring roughly 11 centimeters in length, the mole has black fur and a pink snout, and uses its tunnels to aerate soil, create water channels and provide homes for other animals. Its habitat is threatened by human activities such as pollution and overgrazing, making conservation efforts crucial.
Researchers Discover New Species of Mole in Eastern Europe
A team of scientists from Poland, Ukraine, and Slovakia have made a groundbreaking discovery in the world of mammology – a new species of mole. Named Talpa aquitania, after the region where the mole was discovered, this small creature is set to be a significant addition to the list of European mammals.
Discovery of Talpa aquitania
The discovery of Talpa aquitania was not easy. The first mole was actually caught by a fisherman in the middle of the Tisza River in Hungary in 2014. The scientists, who were alerted by the fisherman, quickly identified it as a new species. Further research was conducted, including sequencing of the DNA, until it was confirmed that it was a new species of mole.
Physical characteristics
Talpa aquitania is a small mole, with a body length of around 11 centimeters and a weight of about 30 grams. It has dark brown fur, which is nearly black in color, and a small pink snout. The mole’s teeth, skull, and other physical features set it apart from other species of moles.
Habitat
Talpa aquitania is found in wetlands and marshes, which are often overlooked habitats in many countries. The discovery of the mole in these areas highlights the importance of preserving these fragile habitats, which could be home to other undocumented species.
The role of moles in the ecosystem
Moles are an important part of the ecosystem in which they live. They help to aerate the soil and create channels underground for water to flow. Their tunnels also provide homes to other animals such as invertebrates and amphibians.
Conservation efforts
The discovery of Talpa aquitania is crucial in terms of conservation efforts. The mole’s habitat is threatened by ongoing human activities such as the construction of dams, pollution, and overgrazing. It is important to protect the areas where the mole is found to ensure the survival of the species.
FAQs
Q: How many species of mole are there?
A: There are currently 42 different species of mole.
Q: How do you tell the difference between moles?
A: The physical features such as the size, color of fur, and shape of the teeth and skull are used to identify different species.
Q: What do moles eat?
A: Moles mainly eat insects and worms.
Q: How deep can moles dig?
A: Moles can dig tunnels up to 7 meters deep.
Q: Are moles harmful to humans?
A: Moles are not harmful to humans, but their tunnels can cause problems for farmers and gardeners.
